Alaves

Founded in 1921, Alaves represent Vitoria-Gasteiz and the province of Alava in Basque football. The blue-and-white club are known as the Babazorros, with El Glorioso another enduring name among supporters. Their home is Mendizorrotza, one of Spain's long-serving football grounds and an enduring city landmark, where Alaves have played since 1924 and built a reputation for a close, demanding matchday atmosphere.

Alaves have won Segunda Division four times. Their most celebrated side, coached by Mane, reached the 2001 UEFA Cup final in the club's first European campaign and lost 5-4 to Liverpool after extra time. A first Copa del Rey final followed in 2017. These runs established a historical identity based on tactical discipline, energetic transitions and teams able to outperform the club's modest resources.